So after selling my beloved 2001 Icon about 10 years ago I am now starting to get back into an MX5 again. I will have about 10K to spend and looking at a roadster. I will be looking at a 2.0L manual and don’e want Bilsteins if I can help it as my OH won’t want a harsh ride. Can anyone recommend any of the special editions around 2011/2012 preferably with leather seats and Bose sound system if possible.
Miyako or Kendo could be worth a look if you really don’t want Bilstein.
I think you will find the 2ltr Miyako and Kendo are folding hard top and the 1.8ltr cars are soft top.
https://www.topspeed.com/cars/mazda/2010-mazda-mx-5-miyako-special-edition-ar92754.html
https://www.topspeed.com/cars/mazda/2011-mazda-mx-5-kendo-ar105496.html
The Kendo has a higher spec than the Miyako.
The cars with the 6 speed box have higher gearing and are better fuel wise and less noisey on the motorway.
They will have the Bilstien suspension.
After say 15,000 miles my Mk3 Sport was very compliant and no issues with hard suspension. I bought it at 11,000 miles and it was a bit hard then but softened up at 15k.
I would drive both but buy on condition these cars are getting rusty especially around 2007 vintage.
If it will be a keeper budget for an underside clean and getting the thing coated. If it will be changed in a few years do not bother.
i think you will find the 5 speed cars have a slightly higher top gear. A 2.0i has 16" wheels with a higher profile and no bilsteins